coptic bookbinding - ashley marigliano

4/11/2016

Early Christians living in Egypt; also referred to as the Copts, invented and used Coptic book binding from the 2nd century AD through the 11th century. This bookmaking method was used to create codices that held the Gnostic Gospels, including the Gospel of Thomas. These were discovered in the Nag Hammadi Library.

This non-adhesive binding structure is created by joining multiple sections together with a chain stitch along the spine, The stitching can be simplistic or very elaborate depending on preference. Ethiopian codices, similar to the Coptic, were developed around the same time. One of the main differences between the two was the use of multiple needles to sew the text block instead of just one, (which the Copts did). These books were also typically left uncovered.

Coptic codices were traditionally made with the stitching done first, followed by the attachment of the covers, where as today we see the cover sewn in with the text block. The Coptic bind definitely allows for a lot of creativity and experimentation within the technique and the structure itself. It is also a great introductory form to learn for beginners who are investigating the book arts world.

Today we see Coptic stitching that has more imagery and intricacy. Geometric patterns and the use of multiple colors for string seem to be the most popular today. Using decorative papers can also change the look of the book structure and allow it to be more personalized,

Detailed Instructions to create your own Coptic: http://emmajane.net/files/coptic.pdf

References:
Monday Methods: Coptic Binding - The Center for Book Arts. (2012). Retrieved April 09, 2016, from http://centerforbookarts.org/monday-methods-coptic-binding/

My Handbound Books - Bookbinding Blog. (n.d.). Retrieved April 09, 2016, from http://myhandboundbooks.blogspot.com/2010/07/little-history-of-chain-stitch.html

Ellie

4/13/2016 03:34:28 pm

These examples are so beautiful! After learning the basics of this method in class, it's so inspiring to see book artists take coptic stitching to the next level. It's great that you included a video introduction for it, as well. Nice job!

roisan rubio

4/16/2016 04:17:01 pm

My first thought is that I want one of those combination sewing frame and clamp gizmos from the video.

You chose some great examples of the stitching. I particularly like the photo with the yellow stitching and multiple colored signatures. The craft on that sewing is great.

Samantha A.

4/17/2016 04:54:40 pm

I keep thinking about all the different ways that fiber-versed people could create spines for books.

Bydalek

4/18/2016 09:46:21 am

Beautiful examples of coptic stitching! Now that we have more efficient and commercial ways to produce books, do you feel that the coptic stitch (especially the more decorative varieties) is purely a superficial aesthetic addition? Given the examples that you showed us, does any of their individual use of the coptic stitch add to the importance and significance of the book? (we can't see the interiors, so there is no way to know). It all comes down to the question we all ask ourselves over and over - I can do this thing really well...but do I need to?

Shelly

4/19/2016 09:56:00 pm

Interesting history and excellent choice of examples. Have you tried any of the more elaborate designs yourself?

Meaghan

4/29/2016 10:48:05 am

Ashley,

Wow, coptic binding sure is beautiful. I had no idea you could do so many different intricate designs, I totally want to try some of those! Personally, I really like coptic binding because it's very hardy and not messy at all because you don't use any adhesives.

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coptic bookbinding - ashley marigliano

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